In a first for the year, competitors set out for two, 22 lap races around Queensland Raceway this afternoon with just a 15 minute ‘mini’ service separating both races, for basic setup and tyre changes.

The format proved a massive hit, with large crowds gathered at Ipswich to watch Owen score two fifth place finishes as he continues moving forward in the championship, which stands at its halfway point for 2011.

“It’s a great result for the team at our local track and promising to know that we’re getting a lot closer to the guys at the top,” commented Owen.

“We still have work to do and I hate to think what some of the guys down the other end of the field are running but clearly we are progressing forward and that’s been the theme for the last few events this season.”

The Gold Coast-based driver was unlucky not to finish fourth during race 17 today when almost pulling off a super pass on Rick Kelly but eventually electing to play it safe and cement his dual top-5 result.

Owen qualified 8th for race 16 making it three top-10 berths in a row over the last three rounds with shootout appearances for the V.I.P. Petfoods driver in Darwin and Townsville.

Tomorrow the action heads back to its traditional roots with a 65 lap, 200-kilometre feature race succeeding morning qualifying.

“I was extremely confident under brakes today and that’s something which will be a useful tool tomorrow because there is obviously going to be several more passing opportunities during the 65 lap feature race.” Owen added.

Tomorrow’s qualifying session commences at 11.20 followed by 200 kilometres of V8 Supercar action at 15.05 at the Coates Hire Ipswich 300.